While the Mount Royal Community Association (MRCA) is proudly resident-led and volunteer-powered, it does not work alone. Behind every event, every infrastructure improvement, and every successful planning initiative is a quiet but essential partnership—with the City of Calgary. February is an ideal time to explore how this relationship works, what it means for residents, and how your membership strengthens our collective voice.
Community associations like the MRCA are considered by the City to be the grassroots representatives of their neighbourhoods. Although we are non-profit societies and not part of the City’s administration, we are recognized as key stakeholders in the municipal process. The City provides resources, information, and funding opportunities to help associations engage residents, manage facilities, and deliver programming. In turn, associations like ours provide localized leadership, identify needs and issues, and help coordinate responses to resident concerns.
The partnership takes many forms. Through the City’s Community Association Liaison program, we have a direct contact within City administration to discuss ongoing initiatives, regulatory questions, and development applications. When new projects or zoning changes are proposed in Mount Royal, the MRCA is notified early and is given the opportunity to provide input. This ensures that your voice can be heard not just at community meetings, but within the City’s formal decision-making process.
MRCA also participates in City-supported programs like Adopt-a-Rink, community cleanups, and safety initiatives. These partnerships make it possible for us to offer a public skating rink each winter, organize spring and fall clean-up days, and advocate for traffic calming or pedestrian safety improvements. Our board and planning committees frequently meet with City departments on everything from park maintenance and heritage conservation to bylaw enforcement and infrastructure planning.
Perhaps most importantly, we rely on the City for financial support through matching grants and facility assistance programs. Whether we are applying for a capital improvement to Mount Royal Station or launching a new recreation program, demonstrating active membership and neighbourhood engagement is essential. The stronger our membership numbers, the more credible and compelling our applications become. City grants are competitive, and your support helps us stand out.
The City also provides valuable training and development support to community association boards and volunteers. This includes workshops on governance, planning, financial management, and inclusivity. Through this collaboration, the MRCA board can operate with professionalism and transparency, ensuring that the association’s decisions reflect both community values and sound organizational practices.
This partnership is not one-sided. While the City offers support, it depends on communities to identify local needs. That is where you come in. Every resident who joins the MRCA strengthens our ability to communicate effectively with the City. When you submit feedback, attend meetings, or fill out surveys, that information helps guide City investments and strategies. Mount Royal is known as one of Calgary’s most engaged and informed neighbourhoods. Maintaining that reputation ensures that we continue to be heard.
Your MRCA membership is a direct investment in this relationship. It allows us to act as a liaison, to secure grants, and to remain a respected voice in civic dialogue. Membership supports the practical work of maintaining our facilities and events, but it also ensures we remain a strong advocate for our shared future.
To find out more about how the MRCA partners with the City of Calgary, or to get involved in our advocacy and planning work, visit www.mrca.ca. There you will find information on upcoming consultations, public input opportunities, and planning committee updates.
Mount Royal is a better place because of our collaborative work with the City. But that collaboration starts with you. Join or renew your membership today.
Join today. Help your community speak with one strong voice.
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